The Perfect Diet

Are you tired of the constant weight loss yo-yo? You go up and down, up and down, yet nothing seems to stick. From Atkins to Jenny Craig and every diet plan in between Just what is the right diet plan for you? Studies find that the best is actually what you make for yourself!

There is no perfect diet plan for everyone. Only you know what foods you can stick to and what exercise regimen is possible with your schedule. For instance, the Slim Fast diet is a plan that is easy and boasts a fairly quick weight loss. But will you really be able to stick to only one full meal of food a day with supplemental shakes and bars? Some will say yes, and some no.

What doctors are finding through various studies is actually common sense. Learning how to fit a daily exercise routine in your schedule while eating healthier will lead to a natural weight loss that sticks forever. It is more of a lifestyle change than a diet and will inevitably bring you better health and a longer life.

The first step in your "lifestyle change" is to begin eating right. The first order of business is to include more fruits and vegetables in your die. The darker the color, the healthier it is. The US Federal Government recommends five to nine daily servings of fruits and veggies for a person following a 2,000 calorie diet. A serving of leafy greens is one cup, fruit is one medium size piece and fruit or vegetable juice is 6 ounces. And remember, beans count as vegetables for your daily dosage.

Five to nine servings may be difficult, but it is certainly attainable. Try grilling your vegetables with a bit of olive oil over them. Eat the sweeter baby carrots or vegetables, or dip fruit into a mixture of fresh yogurt with a touch of brown sugar. Or saute vegetables with olive oil, sprinkle cheese over them and maybe add a touch of crushed walnuts.

Vegetables can be snuck into other foods as well. Try grating carrots into spaghetti sauce. It melts into the sauce and gives it a richer flavor. Apples or bananas can be put on peanut butter and whole wheat bread sandwiches instead of sugary jelly. Or when you are adding water to a casserole recipe, substitute vegetable juice for an extra dose of veggies.

The next step for eating better is reducing your calorie intake. Start by examining what you are drinking daily. Cut out every soda and sweetened drink. If one of the first ingredients is high fructose corn syrup, skip it! And yes, try to drink eight glasses of water a day. If your urine is clear, you are getting plenty of water. Staying hydrated will also keep away those daily aches and pains as well help to improve your memory.

Portion sizes in America are far greater than those in other countries. Studies have shown that if you use a bigger plate, you will eat bigger portions. Choose smaller cups and plates. Don't fill them up, and wait 20 minutes before you consider seconds. By then, you probably won't be hungry anymore. And finally, exercise, exercise, exercise!